Tag Archive for: International Woodworking Fair Atlanta

Richard Christianson

Woodwork Career Alliance to Preview Online Training Modules at IWF

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Each module consists of several related courses covering a wide range of woodworking essentials.

LINCOLN, Neb. – The Woodwork Career Alliance of North America (WCA) is addressing the industry’s skilled labor shortage by offering a glimpse into its first-of-their-kind online training modules at the International Woodworking Fair (IWF), taking place Aug. 6-9 in Atlanta, Ga.

IWF attendees are invited to learn more about the WCA’s latest educational initiative designed to equip woodworking businesses with the resources needed to develop and maintain a qualified workforce.

Woodwork Career Alliance Measurement & Layout online training module

Layout & measuring is the first in a series of online modules that wood products companies will be able to use to help train their workforce.

The WCA’s online training modules provide a comprehensive and accessible solution for woodworking businesses of all sizes. The modules cover a wide range of essential woodworking skills, from foundational topics like wood characteristics and measurement to more advanced techniques in joinery and machine operation.

The two modules that will be featured at IWF include “Math, Measuring, and Layout” and “Wood Theory.” Each module consists of narrated lessons, outside reading assignments, and quizzes. Upon successful completion of each course, learners will have the background knowledge needed to continue their training on higher level tools and techniques.

“We’re thrilled to unveil WCA’s online training courses at the International Woodworking Fair,” said Greg Larson, who led development of the programs. “These are the first in a series of modules we plan to develop and roll out that provide much-needed education and skill development opportunities to a wider audience. I think they will prove valuable by woodworking shops of any type or size anywhere.”

In addition to showcasing the online modules, the WCA will also conduct a workshop titled “Building a Training Program for Your Workers” from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 7. Led by industry veterans Scott Nelson, WCA President, and Bruce Spitz, WCA Board Member, the workshop will provide attendees with valuable insights and strategies for developing or enhancing their training programs tailored to their specific needs.

Highlights of the workshop include:

  • How to develop and structure a training plan.
  • How to access quality training resources and employee training modules.
  • Benefits of doing in-house training to create a career pathway.
  • How to develop the knowledge base skills that must be learned for employees to be successful.

Learn more and register for the WCA’s training workshop.

WCA Training WorkshopWoodworking professionals attending IWF are invited to stop by the WCA’s booth BC424 to learn more about the new online training modules. Representatives of the WCA will also be prepared to discuss the organization’s Skill Standards and Passport credentialing system designed to create career pathways for professional woodworkers. Plus, attendees and exhibitors can learn more about becoming a MANufacturing member, EDUcation member or sponsor.

“The International Woodworking Fair is a critical platform for the Woodwork Career Alliance,” Nelson said. “I always look forward to connecting with our industry – professional woodworkers and industry suppliers. It’s an invaluable opportunity for the WCA to showcase Skill Standards and Passport credentialling program that can help the industry recruit qualified personnel and train them so that they can develop and grow rewarding careers.”

About the Woodwork Career Alliance
The Woodwork Career Alliance of North America was founded in 2007 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and is governed by a volunteer board of directors. The WCA’s mission is to develop and administer a unified set of Skill Standards for the wood products industry. Since 2011, WCA has developed observable and measurable performance standards and assessments for more than 240 woodworking machine operations. In addition, WCA has issued over 6,000 Passport credentials, a portable, personal permanent record documenting each holder’s record of woodworking skill achievements. More than 140 high schools and post-secondary schools throughout North America are WCA EDUcation™ members and a growing number of woodworking companies have joined the WCA as MANufacturing™ members. To learn more about the WCA and how to get involved with its programs, including sponsorship opportunities, visit WoodworkCareer.org.

Richard Christianson

Crafting Futures: Woodwork Career Alliance to Present Training Workshop at IWF 2024

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The session will focus on developing or improving an in-house training program to build and sustain a skilled woodworking workforce.

Woodwork Career Alliance training workshop IWF 2024

Woodwork Career Alliance representatives Scott Nelson, left, and Bruce Spitz will offer their learned guidance for establishing an effective in-house training program.

 

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Woodwork Career Alliance of North America will conduct a workshop at the International Woodworking Fair addressing the industry’s ongoing challenge to recruit, train and retain productive woodworkers.

The workshop, “Building a Training Program for Your Workers,” is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7. The discussion will be led by Scott Nelson, president of the WCA, and Bruce Spitz, member of the WCA Board of Directors. Both presenters have decades of experience running architectural woodworking companies.

Owners and managers of wood products manufacturing companies should attend the workshop for several compelling reasons:

  1. Skill Enhancement: The workshop will provide insights and strategies for developing in-training programs tailored to the specific needs of wood products manufacturers. Attendees can learn about the WCA’s skill standards and credentialing programs geared toward enhancing the skillset of their workforce.
  2. Increased Efficiency: Well-trained workers are more efficient and productive. By attending this workshop, owners and managers can gain valuable knowledge on how to design training programs that focus on improving efficiency, reducing waste, and optimizing production processes within their manufacturing facilities.
  3. Quality Improvement: Training programs can significantly impact product quality. A well-trained workforce is paramount for manufacturing wood products that meet or exceed industry standards and customer expectations.
  4. Safety Compliance: Workplace safety is a must in manufacturing environments, especially in industries involving heavy machinery and equipment. This workshop can provide attendees with insights into developing training protocols that incorporates safety to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with industry regulations, reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
  5. Employee Retention and Satisfaction: Investing in employee training demonstrates a commitment to the professional development and well-being of staff members. By attending this workshop and implementing effective training programs, owners and managers can foster a positive work environment, enhance employee satisfaction, and improve retention rates.
  6. Competitive Advantage: In today’s competitive market, companies that prioritize training and skill development often have a competitive edge. By attending this workshop and implementing innovative training initiatives, wood products manufacturers can differentiate themselves from competitors, attract top talent, and position their businesses for long-term success.
  7. WCA MANufacturing Member Discount: Wood products companies attending this session qualify for a $150 discount off of the $250 annual MANufacturing membership.

Learn more and register.

About the Woodwork Career Alliance
The Woodwork Career Alliance of North America was founded in 2007 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and is governed by a volunteer board of directors. The WCA’s mission is to develop and administer a unified set of Skill Standards for the wood products industry. Since 2011, WCA has developed observable and measurable performance standards and assessments for more than 240 woodworking machine operations. In addition, WCA has issued over 6,000 Passport credentials, a portable, personal permanent record documenting each holder’s record of woodworking skill achievements. More than 140 high schools and post-secondary schools throughout North America are WCA EDUcation™ members and a growing number of woodworking companies have joined the WCA as MANufacturing™ members. To learn more about the WCA and how to get involved with its programs, including sponsorship opportunities, visit WoodworkCareer.org.